Breaking Points with Krystal and Saagar

Explore the growing frustration with the Biden administration as approval ratings sink amidst COVID challenges. Delve into military accountability issues highlighted by the jailing of a Marine officer. Discuss YouTube's rising vaccine misinformation policies and their impact on content creators. Examine the crumbling trust in mainstream media and its struggles to engage younger audiences. The episode also reflects on serious legal challenges faced by environmental activists, showcasing the need for accountability and transparency.

This conversation features Bernie Sanders, the progressive U.S. Senator from Vermont. He discusses the fallout from Nancy Pelosi's controversial decision regarding infrastructure bills, sparking unrest among progressives. The podcast dives into federal reserve corruption, highlighting questionable actions by its leaders, and examines political accountability post-Afghanistan withdrawal. Sanders also shares insights on innovative proposals like minting a trillion-dollar coin to address the debt ceiling crisis and reflects on grassroots movements challenging political inequities.

This discussion dives into the critical legislative battles unfolding in Congress, highlighting emotional confrontations and the tensions among progressives. They delve into the controversial role of FBI informants during the January 6th events and the implications for civil liberties. The critique extends to the Republican Party's struggle to connect with diverse voter demographics. Finally, the weekend's geopolitical landscape is explored, examining China’s economic troubles and the origins of COVID-19 amidst international research funding debates.

Dive into the controversial trial of a tech figure accused of fraud, where sexism narratives take the spotlight. Explore the ethical fallout of medical testing scams that misled patients. Hear stories of a Walmart worker bravely addressing corporate culture issues and the struggles faced by service staff in America. Additionally, unpack the thrilling dynamics of the Virginia gubernatorial race, where key issues like the economy and critical race theory shape voter opinions.

Ben Schreckinger, National Political Correspondent for Politico and author of "The Bidens," dives into the Democratic Party's tumultuous landscape, discussing progressives' internal conflicts and their push for legislative change. He sheds light on China's economic crisis and its potential global fallout. The conversation also critically examines Bill Gates' Epstein ties and the complexities of the Monica Lewinsky scandal. Schreckinger highlights discontent among voters, warning of electoral repercussions if the party fails to address pressing issues.

David Sirota, founder of The Daily Poster, dives into the intertwining of politics and economics. He analyzes the implications of the Supreme Court's considerations on Roe v. Wade and how it could reshape the upcoming elections. The conversation highlights the challenges posed by the U.S. debt ceiling, while critiquing political hypocrisy around health mandates. The discussion also touches on the rising childhood obesity crisis and the need for serious dialogue on its long-term effects, revealing the urgent call for genuine legislative change.

Glenn Greenwald, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, joins to unpack the recent fallout from a controversial drone strike in Afghanistan, revealing the ethical dilemmas of military action. He discusses the evolving political landscape in Texas, especially Beto O'Rourke's gubernatorial ambitions. Greenwald also critiques media narratives around the Russiagate indictment, emphasizing the importance of skepticism in today’s information landscape. The conversation touches on the implications of corporate influence on labor and the harsh realities faced by migrants in America.

The hosts dive into the intertwined worlds of war profiteering, law enforcement, and media narratives, sparking critical thoughts on needed reforms. A former presidential candidate gears up to launch a new third party, sharing insights from his upcoming book on democratic reforms. They humorously discuss the local ice cream scene while addressing the controversial return of the reality show 'Cops,' critiquing its negative impact on societal perceptions. The episode rounds out with a nod to gratitude from the hosts and health tips for pregnancy nutrition.

David Dayen, executive editor of The American Prospect, dives into the Medicare prescription drug pricing debate, highlighting how pharmaceutical industry influence complicates critical reforms. He discusses the aftermath of California's recall election, emphasizing voter demographic trends and messaging strategies. The podcast also critiques the FBI's failures in handling abuse claims, particularly in the Larry Nassar case, while addressing ethical dilemmas in surveillance and misinformation. Dayen sheds light on the urgent need for systemic change amidst political challenges.

Derek Thompson, a staff writer at The Atlantic known for his keen insights on economics and society, discusses vital topics. He dives into the California recall election's complex dynamics, revealing political strategies and implications. The conversation also tackles the alarming drop in U.S. life expectancy, linking it to systemic issues. Additionally, they explore vaccine mandates, Facebook's elite protections, and the troubling ties between powerful figures like Steve Bannon and Jeffrey Epstein, highlighting concerns over accountability and media influence.